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NBC: Jillian Michaels exiting 'Biggest Loser'

Lynn Elber AP Television Writer

Posted:
06/25/2014 10:28:23 AM MDT

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FILE - This Jan. 6, 2012 file photo shows fitness guru Jillian Michaels in New York. Producers of the weight-loss competition series, "The Biggest Loser" released a statement Wednesday, June 25, 2014 saying that Michaels will not be returning for for season 16 this fall. (AP Photo/Carlo Allegri, file)

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jillian Michaels is exiting "The Biggest Loser," NBC and the producer of the weight-loss competition series said Wednesday.

In a statement, the network and production company Shine America said they and trainer Michaels have decided to part ways, and she won't be back on "Biggest Loser" this fall.

This is the third time that Michaels, known for her tough, drill-sergeant approach to working with contestants as they shed pounds, has left the series.

Asked if she might return again, a production company spokesman said the focus was on the upcoming season, No. 16.

There was no immediate response Wednesday from Michaels' representative to an email request.

Michaels' replacement on "The Biggest Loser" was not announced.

The well-muscled Michaels has described herself as a formerly overweight, unhappy youngster who found a path to fitness through martial arts, eventually becoming a trainer, physical therapy aide and then sports-medicine professional.

In 2012, Michaels returned for the show's 14th edition after taking a break to pursue adoption of a daughter. She and her partner also have a son.

"The Biggest Loser" provoked a debate in February when contestant Rachel Frederickson won after a huge weight drop that took her from 260 to 105 pounds. Criticism arose on social media about whether she'd lost too much, while experts questioned the focus on body size rather than overall health.